Plaza de Santo Domingo — Attraction in Cartagena

An amazing experience in the heart of Cartagena’s Old Town. This lively and colorful square is always buzzing with life—street performers, local artists, and vendors fill the space with energy and culture. Colonial-era buildings surround the plaza, many of them housing charming restaurants, bars, and cafés with plenty of outdoor seating. It’s a wonderful place to sit back, enjoy a drink or a meal, and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

The iconic Santo Domingo Church anchors the plaza with its beautiful colonial architecture and storied history. A well-known legend claims the Devil once tried to leap from its roof. Just steps away lies the bronze sculpture Gertrudis by Fernando Botero—touching her is said to bring luck in love, making it a favorite photo spot for visitors.

Whether you come for the food, the music, the architecture, or the people-watching, this historic square is one of the most memorable places in the city. There’s so much to see, taste, and explore—you won’t want to miss it.

That said, one word of caution: I did encounter a minor issue with a fruit vendor near the plaza. He initially quoted 4,000 pesos for a cup of watermelon slices, which seemed reasonable based on past experience. However, when I paid with a 50,000-peso bill, he returned only 35,000 pesos in change and insisted the price was 15,000. It served as a valuable reminder to avoid using large bills with street vendors...

Nestled within the enchanting streets of Cartagena's Old Town, Plaza de Santo Domingo stands as a timeless testament to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. This captivating square exudes an irresistible charm that draws visitors from far and wide.

At its heart lies the iconic Santo Domingo Church, a striking example of colonial architecture adorned with colorful facades and intricate details. Whether you're admiring its beauty from afar or exploring its interior, the church offers a captivating glimpse into Cartagena's past.

Surrounding the plaza, you'll find a delightful array of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques housed within colonial-era buildings. From sipping on freshly brewed Colombian coffee to indulging in traditional cuisine, there's no shortage of culinary delights to savor.

What truly sets Plaza de Santo Domingo apart is its lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings when live music fills the air and locals gather to socialize. Whether you're relaxing on a bench, mingling with locals, or simply soaking in the ambiance, the plaza offers a glimpse into Cartagena's vibrant culture.

Visitors to Cartagena simply cannot miss Plaza de Santo Domingo. Whether you're captivated by its historical significance, charmed by its architectural beauty, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of the city, this enchanting square is sure to leave a...

Plaza Santo Domingo lies at the heart of the old walled city of Cartagena and is one of the city's most famous squares.

The square is named after the Santo Domingo Church that stands in one of its corners and is lined with charming colonial buildings. The restaurants provide ample outdoor seating and are the perfect spot for dinner or a nightcap. The lively square is full of tourists and street vendors at all hours of the day.

Sadly, the square has a sordid past and was the site of executions during the Spanish Inquisition where Jewish people and non-Catholics were persecuted. There is even a legend that the Devil himself tried jumping on the roof of the Church of Santo Domingo You can learn more about this tragic time in Cartagena’s history at the Palace of the Inquisition.

A real tourist attraction is the statue of the naked woman laying there on...